About Bill T.

The saxophone can be one of the funnest instruments to play, no questions asked! In order to reach that point it's important to have certain things in order such as: sound production, breath support, musicality, and technique. In lessons use a variety of exercises and method/etude books, playing duets together, as well as listening and ear training to give my students a well rounded approach to the saxophone and music helping them to become the best musician they can be.

About Bill

Bill is multi-instrumentalist, jazz musician, composer, arranger and educator. He developed a strong connection to music early in life through some family tradition, encouraging parents and many inspiring and influential teachers. He has gone on to perform alongside a number of noteworthy artists and ensembles and has toured extensively overseas and throughout North America.

His love for music came to life though performances with several ensembles in public school, regional big bands and his own jazz saxophone quartet. He is a graduate of the Purchase College Conservatory of Music's Jazz Studies program and has recently become a graduate of New Jersey City University's M.M. Multiple Woodwind Performance program.

Following two years performing abroad on cruise ships and the national tour of Young Frankenstein: The Musical, he was dr

awn back to New York City. Performing regularly on piccolo, flute, alto flute, clarinet, bass clarinet and all saxophones, he is proving to be valued asset in the NYC music scene.

Bill performs regularly with his group, Bill Todd and the Sixth Generation, while also working as a Broadway pit musician, a sideman and a private music teacher.

*** Lesson Details ***Every student is unique, therefore, lessons are designed to fit the student individually. My teaching style is molded to satisfy each students wants and needs. I also like to focus on developing proper playing habits. I see it as my job to help my students understand and develop the proper techniques to eliminate bad habits in order for them to be the best they can be on their instrument. Lessons are about having fun making music, learning, and improving.

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect the student to bring their own music notebook and their own instrument. They may also need to purchase their own lesson books when the time comes.

*** Specialties ***I can help my students learn how to play in a variety of styles ranging from classical (solos, chamber music, etudes, etc.) to jazz (improvisation, harmony, etc.). Whether they're working on a song to play at school, a NYSSMA or All County solo, or just learning for fun, I will help them play to the best of their ability.

...

Reviews

Cornel D. August 1, 2018·Flute·In studio

We all know names of business enterprises such as IBM, Fiat, Elf, Siemens, Ericsson, Nokia, Sony, Heineken, Ikea, Microsoft, Kia, Nike, and Virgin. These names belong to corporations producing goods and services. We may ﬁnd the headquarters of IBM in the USA, Fiat in Italy, Elf in France, Siemens in Germany, Ericsson in Sweden, Nokia in Finland, Sony in Japan, Heineken in the Netherlands, and so forth. These are multinational or global business enterprises employing thousands of persons.

Lauren February 9, 2018·Flute·In home

Bill is great, and I would recommend him for players of all ages. I played flute in middle school and high school and wanted to get back into playing after having not touched my instrument for 15+ years. I found Bill on Take Lessons and was excited to begin lessons after reading his many glowing reviews. Although I was nervous about essentially having to start from scratch all over again with the flute, Bill has been kind, patient and lots of fun to work with. He is an extremely talented musician, and is very good at figuring out what I'm doing wrong with respect to air flow, embouchure, etc., and recommending how to correct it. Although I have a lot of work ahead of me I'm so enjoying playing again, and this time with much better sound, thanks to Bill!

Josie B. October 15, 2017·Music Theory·In studio

Composer here, who studied with Bill. A kind and insightful teacher! Bill was always ready to help with odd requests for pieces I was working or interested in as we went over piano topics, music theory, and ear training. Gave me a great foundation to work with.

View Details

Bill T.

View Profile

Bill T.

Brooklyn, NY 11216

(28)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Matt L.

My goal as a teacher is to provide an in depth understanding of the instrument to my students. Whether we are learning technique specific to the instrument or general musical concepts, it is important to me that I take the time to insure that my students not only learn how to do something, but also the reasons why we are learning a specific concept or technique. At the end of the day, my ultimate goal is to teach you how to teach yourself, so that you may enjoy playing the instrument outside of our lessons together.

I prefer not to conform to a specific teaching style, because every student is different, and I have been fortunate to have a great variety of types of students throughout my years as a teacher. Some of my students are children and adolescents who are looking to pursue music when they go to college or auditioning for state and regional band programs. Many of my students are very busy adults who are either looking to pick up an instrument for the first time as an ...

About Matt

Hello!

Thanks for choosing me as you private music instructor. I’ve enjoyed teaching music since 2001 and being a Takelessons teacher since 2008. I specialize in teaching beginner to advanced saxophone, beginner to intermediate clarinet, beginner flute, and beginner to advanced jazz improvisation. I welcome all ages and believe that it is never too late to pick up an instrument, even if you’ve had no prior experience in music. Specifically when it comes to beginners, I am able to provide virtually everything that you need to get started, including access to brand new and lightly used student model instruments that I have for sale at very reasonable prices.

I have been teaching and playing music professionally for almost 20 years and began studying music and playing the saxophone at age 11. I currently live and work in New York Ci

ty after moving here from Philadelphia in early 2001, after graduating from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia in 1999 with a Bachelors in Music Performance.

Throughout my musical career I have worked in a variety of capacities in addition to being a performer, including working as a composer and recording studio engineer. My main area of expertise is performing as a jazz saxophonist on alto, tenor, and soprano saxophones, and I regularly play throughout New York City in restaurants, jazz clubs, bars and other music venues.

As a private music teacher, I place an emphasis on giving the student an in depth understanding of his or her instrument, and I place the utmost importance on explaining advanced concepts in the simplest of terms in order to insure that the student fully comprehends the objectives of each lesson. Such concepts that I cover regularly are sight-reading, ear-training, technique, and creativity.

As a regularly performing musician in New York City, I can be seen every Sunday night at Ba'sik (a very popular bar in Williamsburg Brooklyn) where I lead an open jazz jam session. A few of my adult students have even been able to reach a level in jazz improvisation that they've been able to come out and sit in with the band.

YOUNGER STUDENTS: I’ve found that in most cases, it is very difficult for students younger than 8 or 9 years old to learn instruments like the clarinet, saxophone and flute. Occasionally, an exception can be made if a younger student is taller than average for his or her age, but most of the time the size of a student’s hands, as well as his or her amount of a physical strength, are not adequate enough until around the ages of 8 or 9. A worthwhile alternative, if a student is absolutely enthusiastic about learning a woodwind instrument, is to begin them on an instrument called the recorder. The recorder is a real instrument, but it is a more primitive, smaller, and simpler of an instrument than the saxophone, clarinet, or the flute; however, it is a great way for young students to begin learning the basics of playing a woodwind instrument and also learning important musical concepts such as reading music notation, pitch, and rhythm. I have also been introduced to a new line of instruments that are developed for younger students by a company called Nuvo. These instruments are smaller and simpler analogs to the saxophone, flute, and clarinet, and they can function as the next step in a younger student’s progression between the recorder and an actual saxophone, flute, or clarinet. The specific instruments that I deal with are called the jSax and the DooD by Nuvo Instrumental. I was asked to demo these instruments and you can check them out if you scroll down to the video section of my profile and look for the videos entitled “jSax and DooD review and demo. Nuvo Instrumental” or “jSax and Dood demo. Nuvo Instrumental”.

In addition to teaching woodwind instruments and jazz improvisation, I also have experience teaching Sibelius music writing software, and audio engineering and editing with Pro-tools LE and Logic Pro X.

PLEASE NOTE: Because the NYC area is very different geographically from other parts of the country, especially in terms of transportation, I may appear outside of your area in terms of where I am available to travel. If you are very interested in taking lessons with me, but you are outside of my travel zone, please feel free to follow up with a Takelessons counselor and have them contact me personally to see if we might make an exception. I am available to travel to virtually all areas of Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan as well as Jersey City and Hoboken, depending on if the day and time selected allows me acceptable travel time between other scheduled lessons. If my location in Astoria Queens is not convenient for you, and you are unable to have lessons in your home, then there is also an option where I can most likely find a very affordable teaching studio in an area that is more convenient for you that we may rent by the hour and split the cost for your lesson.

*** Lesson Details ***Any student, regardless of age or experience level, learns best when engaged in an activity that he or she understands and enjoys. Part of my success as a teacher can be attributed to my willingness to take into account every student's particular musical interests and strengths, and attempt to teach directly to those areas. For instance, in the initial stages of developing a student and teacher relationship, I like to request that the student compile a "wish list" of approximately ten pieces of music that he or she would like to be able to play. This list may include pieces in such genres as classical, jazz, and popular music, just to name a few. It is through this list that the student can begin almost immediately learning exactly what he or she likes, and by default, I can then teach the student all of the technical components needed to perform on his or her instrument, as well as determine the specific areas where the student needs to receive more focused instruction. More importantly, this "thinking outside of the box," customized approach provides a fun atmosphere and enables the student to enjoy learning the art of playing music by not being solely dependent on instructional booklets which many students, regardless of age and experience, find boring and tedious.

*** Studio Equipment ***Additional saxophones for students who do not currently have a saxophone to use during a lesson. Recording equipment, including software and microphones. Mac book pro with music writing and recording software. Full 88 key keyboard.

Reviews

Richard May 30, 2018·Saxophone·In studio

First class was awesome, Matt really knew how to help me with getting the correct articulation on the Alto Sax and made it very easy to understand the keys and musical notes, Can’t wait to advance and learn more.

Athena L. February 9, 2018·Saxophone·In studio

First lesson was great. It felt like he was teaching to what I need rather than just a formula he uses across the board. So I’m looking forward to learning with Matt

Joseph M.

Joseph M.

About Lauren K.

About Lauren

I have taught students from the age of four to sixty in all levels of flute, piccolo, alto and tenor saxophone as well as beginner clarinet. For the younger students I have also used to recorder to teach notes and to build confidence. My goal is to make the learning fun as that turns practicing into fun time not work.

...

Reviews

Rachel I. March 14, 2018·Flute·In home

First lesson went very well, daughter understood everything she explained .. looking forward to continue with her..

Sonny R. March 19, 2017·Clarinet·In home

The lesson went great. My son was very happy. Lauren is a sweet young lady who I could see right away works well with kids.

View Details

Lauren K.

View Profile

Lauren K.

Brooklyn, NY 11234

(2)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Emily P.

The saxophone family is full of potential for a wide array of colors and textures and can be played in a variety of styles: classical, jazz, funk, Afrobeat, rock, and more. I've played saxophone for 15 years, and I teach my students through exercises catered to their musical passions. In addition to the basic technical elements of playing, I focus on listening across the musical spectrum. I encourage the use of long tones and air support to improve tone, flexibility, and all repertoire.

About Emily

Woodwind instrumentalist Emily performs regularly in a range of styles including classical, jazz, rock, funk, Afrobeat, Third Stream, and musical theater. Emily holds her M.M. in Multiple Woodwind Performance from The Boston Conservatory with concentrations in saxophone, clarinet, and flute performance. She also holds a B.M. in Music Education from Ithaca College with an emphasis on jazz performance and pedagogy in addition to traditional studies in music education.

Emily has performed on tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, clarinet, bass, clarinet, and flute in Big League Productions' Broadway National Tour of the Frank Loesser classic "Guys and Dolls." Emily has also performed on alto saxophone, soprano saxophone, clarinet, flute, and piccolo in the Broadway National Tour of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas...the Musical!" She just retur

ned from the Broadway National Tour of "42nd Street," where she performed on tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, clarinet, flute, and piccolo.

...

Reviews

Peter F. February 28, 2018·Clarinet·In home

A great first lesson. Hoping it continues.

Lucia F. December 11, 2017·Saxophone·In home

Emily is warm, energetic, very professional and talented.
We love her!!

Cassel September 17, 2017·Saxophone·In studio

My daughter had the most wonderful first lesson I could have hoped for! Thank you for making her education enjoyable.. it already left her wanting to come back !

View Details

Emily P.

View Profile

Emily P.

Brooklyn, NY 11207

(13)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

View More

View Previous

About Michael T.

Experienced music teacher of 7 years available for eager students of all experience levels and ages!

About Michael

Michael A Tate graduated from the prestigious Music Education Program and Psychology Program at Ithaca College in 2012. Ithaca gave him the incredible opportunity to hone in on his musicianship and compositional skills. He was also able to discover a new medium of composition, film composition. Tate immediately fell in love with the art of writing music for film and was able to make his first musical debut on a film directed by Mike Blaney. In his time at Ithaca College, he composed scores for multiple films and continues to maintain an active composition career. Tate is currently finishing as a music teacher Brooklyn Scholars Charter School (BSCS) and Music Content Leader for National Heritage Academies (NHA) New York Branch. In the fall Tate will be returning to school to study the psychological benefits of music education for children

and adolescents, while teaching private lessons.

...

Reviews

Beverly August 1, 2018·Oboe·Online

Really appreciate his work with my son!

Beverly July 5, 2018·Oboe·Online

jason June 20, 2018·Trumpet·Online

View Details

Michael T.

View Profile

Michael T.

Forest Hills, NY 11375

(5)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Matt M.

I approach each student differently according to their level and their needs. In most lessons the focus will be on improving technique through playing etudes and scales. I have experience in preparing students for the NYSSMA solo festival. I am also an experienced jazz musician and can teach improvisation. Looking at harmony and studying the masters of the music is how I teach jazz.

About Matt

I am a saxophonist with 13 years of experience who just graduated from college. In my lessons I will go through all of the fundamentals that students need, but we will always have fun, because if we are not having fun then there is something I am doing wrong.

About Cory

Cory R.

Cory R.

About Tyler B.

With training at high-level schools and over a decade of diverse professional experience, I'm well-suited to teach saxophone in any style. Whether you need help with school ensemble music, want to learn your favorite melodies, or even want to write your own music, I can offer experienced and relaxed guidance towards your goals!

About Tyler

I'm a multi-instrumentalist, teacher, composer, arranger, freshly transplanted to Brooklyn after seven great years in Boston, Massachusetts. My professional experience on saxophone, keyboards, clarinet, flute, and bass in many different musical styles has offered me a wide-ranging palate to teach from. For the past five years, I've worked for multiple organizations and agencies as a private lessons instructor, averaging 15-20 students at any given time and maxing out at over 30! My approach to lessons is laid back, yet goal-oriented. My main goals are to equip my students musical and instrumental fundamentals, help them discover their particular passions within music and work towards related goals, and to foster an environment rooted in fun and mutual respect.

...

View Details

Tyler B.

View Profile

Tyler B.

Brooklyn, NY 11206

starting at

$42
/ 30-min

About Taylor F.

Learn how to play your favorite songs and solos, read music, develop music theory knowledge, ear training, sight reading, technique, and so much more! I have a BA in Music and have been playing professionally for 10 years - so my style combines an academic, educational approach with real-world experience in all genres. In my view, having fun leads to focus. Fun + focus = huge strides in progress. All ages and experience levels are welcome, and I'll create a tailored program full of the things that are most important for achieving your specific musical goals. Shoot me a message and we'll see if we're a good match!

About Taylor

I'm a professional saxophonist, vocalist and songwriter. I graduated from St. Michael's College with a Bachelors of Music, and I have 10 years of experience playing in NYC, the Northeast and other areas across the US.

Saxophone students can expect to have fun, improve their technique and expand their song repertoire every week. As opposed to applying a one-size-fits-all approach, each student's lesson plan is customized around their goals on the instrument and the musical styles that they most enjoy playing. In addition, I make use of my broad performance experience to help students move past any performance anxiety they may have - allowing them to confidently play with others and more fully express themselves on their instrument.

I teach saxophone students of all ages and experience levels. I have studied saxophone for 20 years, in

cluding learning from both classical and jazz-focused teachers. I can teach students to read music and play by ear, improve their technique, play songs, and even improvise beautiful solos.

My personal musical focus is in the jazz and funk realm, and I currently play with a number of groups including The Jennys, Luca Bertaglia Mind Project, Julianne Mason and others. My songwriting focus is in the indie realm, specifically with an aim for commercial placement. I have a great appreciation and respect for all musical styles, and believe that there is much to be learned from all of them. I'm looking forward to meeting you and helping you to become a better musician!

Recent Saxophone Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Saxophone articles on our blog.

Thinking about buying a new instrument? It's a big decision, as an instrument is truly an investment -- especially if you're spending several hundred dollars (or more, for higher-end brands and models) on it.
Before making your purchase, you'll want to do some research. But where do you start? With so many brands out there, how do you know which ones are worth the money? What do you really need to ensure years of playing and practicing?
We came across a great article over on Donna Schw …
Read More

Here's What to Know Before Buying an Instrument

Thinking about buying a new instrument? It's a big decision, as an instrument is truly an investment -- especially if you're spending several hundred dollars (or more, for higher-end brands and models) on it.
Before making your purchase, you'll want to do some research. But where do you start? With so many brands out there, how do you know which ones are worth the money? What do you really need to ensure years of playing and practicing?
We came across a great article over on Donna Schw

Is Saxophone Hard to Learn? Read This Before Taking Lessons.

Is saxophone hard to learn? Not exactly. The saxophone, like many instruments, is not difficult to begin playing. It can however, be challenging to master
Many people say that its easy to make a sound on the saxophone, but harder to make a good sound (at least, at first). But if youre considering getting started with saxophone lessons - dont be discouraged! Any self-disciplined student can progress in their saxophone skills by taking the right steps as a beginner. Keep reading to lea

Choosing a Neck Strap | How to Play Saxophone Tips

Learning how to play saxophone starts with the right equipment--namely, a quality neck strap! Read on for some helpful advice from Brookings, SD teacher Carl S...
&nbsp;
The saxophone is a unique instrument for many reasons. One example is that the saxophone is the only band instrument that uses a neck strap. Unfortunately, the neck strap is often the most overlooked aspect of playing the instrument. One of the first things that I stress to a new student is the importance of the neck